Overview

• Berlin's Work Senator Cansel Kiziltepe labeled Teslas produced in Brandenburg as 'Nazi-Autos,' citing Elon Musk's controversial political ties as a factor in the company's declining sales.
• Brandenburg's Economic Minister Daniel Keller and Minister-President Dietmar Woidke condemned the remark, emphasizing the Tesla factory's diverse workforce of 11,000 employees from 150 nations.
• Kiziltepe has refused to retract her statement, asserting her critique is directed at Elon Musk's political positions, not Tesla employees or customers.
• Industry groups and opposition leaders warned the comment could harm Berlin-Brandenburg's economic collaboration and investment prospects.
• Tesla's Grünheide Gigafactory, Brandenburg's largest employer, is a key economic driver for the region, providing high-paying, permanent jobs to thousands, including many Berlin residents.